Where is the Alternator located?

Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 FORD ESCAPE
  • 3.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 11,000 MILES
Noticed battery light turns on and off occasionally. Recently the radio has been doing the same. I had my vehicle checked at AutoZone and was told the battery was good, all system passed. Took car back today and was told alternator is the cause of the problem. My question is, where is the alternator in the car and is it hard to get to? I was told labor would be expensive since replacing the alternator is a lot of work to get to it. I would appreciate any feedback.
Friday, June 14th, 2024 AT 3:08 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

The alternator is low on the passenger side of the engine front. These are a bit difficult to remove because of their location and the lack of space to physically remove it from the engine compartment. Whatever you do, make sure the battery is disconnected prior to starting the job.

I attached the directions below for the removal and installation of the alternator. Note that it does indicate to remove the intermediate axle shaft.

Take a look through the directions and let me know if it helps or if you have additional questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Friday, June 14th, 2024 AT 8:00 PM
Tiny
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Thank you, no wonder labor work cost is high.
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Friday, June 14th, 2024 AT 8:07 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

No problem whatsoever. The flat rate for labor is 2.8 hours. I attached a pic below for you to see it. The alternator price listed is an OEM part. That's retail for it and why it is so expensive.

Take care and let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

Joe

See pic below.
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Friday, June 14th, 2024 AT 8:21 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
  • MEMBER
  • 56 POSTS
My neighbor removed the battery terminal and said if the car stays running the alternator is good. It stayed running and now I'm confused. Is the alternator good or not? Sorry to be such a bother but I just want to be sure I'm doing the right fix for the issue.
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Saturday, June 15th, 2024 AT 7:09 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

You are no bother whatsoever. That is a good question. First, I don't recommend disconnecting the battery with the engine running. That can cause different issues.

Now, the easiest way to determine if the alternator is good is by using a multimeter or voltmeter. Before starting the engine, check the voltage at the battery. With the engine off, it should be slightly above 12v.

Next, start the engine. With the engine running, the voltage should be closer to 14v if the alternator is working.

Here is a link that explains how to do this in more detail:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Let me know if that is something you can do or have done. Also, if the vehicle is drivable, most parts stores will test the alternator and battery free of charge.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Saturday, June 15th, 2024 AT 6:27 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
  • MEMBER
  • 56 POSTS
Thank you for your help. Got a new alternator put in and seems like my problem is solved.
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Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 AT 2:34 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
  • MEMBER
  • 56 POSTS
Where is the compressor on 2012 Nissan Roque SV?
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Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 AT 2:36 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

I need you to start a new post with the question. We are more than happy to help, but we keep the posts specific to one topic, so they are more helpful to others. I hope you understand.

Here is the link to start a new post. Simply copy and paste your car's information and the question. Someone will be happy to help.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Take care, and again, I hope you understand.

Joe
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Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 AT 8:18 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
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Okay, I will thank you.
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Monday, June 24th, 2024 AT 6:39 AM

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